Expedition Portal - General Vehicle Modificationshttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/
A place to discuss modifications that are not manufacturer specific, such as tires, racks, fluids, etc.).Sponsored by XVENTURE TRAILERSenSun, 18 Feb 2018 04:31:50 GMTvBulletin60http://forum.expeditionportal.com/images/misc/rss.pngExpedition Portal - General Vehicle Modificationshttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/
Bilstein 7100 valving?http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190400-Bilstein-7100-valving?goto=newpost
Fri, 16 Feb 2018 21:44:22 GMTCurrent valving profile on my 4x4 E350 with a 4" lift is:
360/80 linear (Front) and 360/240 digressive (rear). This is what was spec'd from Deaver Spring when I upgraded to their spring package.

Has anyone tried 400/100 valving? My rig feels a bit undershocked and has some pogo action. Bilstein's generic recommendion is 360/80 for full size front solid axle 4WD w/ coil spring. Not sure how the spring rate is different with leaf springs but all loaded up I'm 4600lb over the front axle and 5400lb over the rear axle. From googling around the 400/100 profile is very popular with the rover community, heavy sprung and top heavy when geared up for offroading and camping. Just wondering it it's wasted effort for what might be a limited improvement. The shock valving business seems rather secretive.
]]>General Vehicle Modificationsstormloverhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190400-Bilstein-7100-valvingMounting a roof rack on a camper shellhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190323-Mounting-a-roof-rack-on-a-camper-shell?goto=newpost
Tue, 13 Feb 2018 23:33:16 GMTHi all,

I've got a 2000 Tacoma with a camper set up in the bed, and a Snugtop camper shell. I'd like to put a roof rack on it to carry skis, but the shell doesn't have rails for putting a rack on, and I'm a bit leery of drilling holes in it for rivet nuts or similar, and thereby compromising the waterproofing of the shell. Has anyone done this, and have thoughts on sealing the holes off? Or a clever alternative that I haven't thought of that doesn't require drilling? I did some searching, but didn't find a ton.

I'm not looking to carry a lot of weight, for what that's worth. I've seen the metal frame ladder racks that sit on top of the bed rail and run outside of the shell, which would work, but I'd prefer something cheaper if possible, and those seem like overkill from a weight perspective.
]]>General Vehicle ModificationsHABhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190323-Mounting-a-roof-rack-on-a-camper-shellLights or portable airhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190060-Lights-or-portable-air?goto=newpost
Wed, 07 Feb 2018 05:17:01 GMThey guys, Im in a bit of a conundrum. Im starting from scratch again on this truck and Ive learned a few things about what I do and don't want from the last.

On board air vs portable air:
There is a prefabbed mount for the arb dual compressor that sits in the engine bay of my truck, but then you either need a real long hose, or plumb lines and have outlets somewhere on the truck. Not to mention wiring things and a switch etc.

I had two compressors on my last truck, a single arb for the lockers and a extreme air magnum with a tank for the tires, tools and anything else. I will never do that again. So much maintenance and leaks and problems. And its always whn your out and about One little twig and your leaking, one bit of dust and your fittings dont work. No thank you, Im done. Been there done that.

So I am looking into the Arb portable dual compressor box. I am going to get the dual, simply because it will more easily run a tool if needed, but also will fill 37+ tires that friends run. Better to get them home before dark than caravan at night.

So my conundrum is this $830 compressor or adding lights.

I have a chevy colorado zr2 which comes with not horrible headlights and no fog lamps. The factory accessory roof lights are stupid expensive for what you get because the require a dealer install due to bcm programming and all the dealers here say they wont just do the programming. Even if they did, its $1850 for two 7 inch rigid lights.

So when I add lights, it will be a 30 inch bumper mount light bar and a pair of hood/cowl/ditch lights. I plan on Baja designs brackets and lights and a Spod SE system. This will end up being about the same price as the factory pieces, but offer tons more light and allow expansion for other lights/things.

Problem is, I am almost to the amount for the lights. hopefully at the first of next month I will have the full discretionary funds for the lights etc.
I can do the compressor now...but that will put the lights off another two months should nothing pop up.

And then there is the wife. Will she let me do lights or compressor...or both... lets say she cracks down... Which is more important?

I plan on the mojave road before summer, and I have a feeling it will be before I can get both. (I doubt my missus is going to have a moment of generosity and increase my toy allowance)
]]>General Vehicle Modificationsfiftyhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/190060-Lights-or-portable-airDuluth Fire Bucket Seat Covershttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189817-Duluth-Fire-Bucket-Seat-Covers?goto=newpost
Sun, 04 Feb 2018 18:39:53 GMTAnyone have these? I like that they look like they’re easy on/off for washing. I certainly like the price as well. I’m sure they’ll wear well, being heavy canvas. My only concern is will they stay put.
...Anyone have these? I like that they look like they’re easy on/off for washing. I certainly like the price as well. I’m sure they’ll wear well, being heavy canvas. My only concern is will they stay put.

https://m.duluthtrading.com/store/pr...hoC_wkQAvD_BwE
]]>General Vehicle Modificationsphsyclehttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189817-Duluth-Fire-Bucket-Seat-CoversHigh Lift Bed Mountinghttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189798-High-Lift-Bed-Mounting?goto=newpost
Sun, 04 Feb 2018 00:07:41 GMTCrowd sourcing how to mount a high-lift in the bed of my GMC.
I want to mount it under the bed rail on the right side. I would like to bolt it through the side of the bed and put a large fender washers on it. However, their is no access to install the nuts and washers.
This is the mount -...Crowd sourcing how to mount a high-lift in the bed of my GMC.

I want to mount it under the bed rail on the right side. I would like to bolt it through the side of the bed and put a large fender washers on it. However, their is no access to install the nuts and washers.

So the only way I can think of installing it would be to use the rivnuts, the other option would be some sheet metal screws? Not a very elegant option.

All suggestions welcome.
]]>General Vehicle Modificationssargeekhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189798-High-Lift-Bed-MountingWhat are some of the most reliable old vehicles?http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189786-What-are-some-of-the-most-reliable-old-vehicles?goto=newpost
Sat, 03 Feb 2018 17:18:06 GMTI want to spend more refurbishing something mechanically simple than buying new (unless someone were to actually cater to this), even if I was a billionaire. For instance, my buddy has an old 1990 Toyota pickup, super simple engine with the 22-RE and a manual trans.

This is the sort of thing I'm looking for, but Toyotas.... They cost so damn much these days, even when they're 25-35 years old. It's kind of outrageous, really, and it is only getting worse.

Did no one else make anything close in terms of reliability and simplicity? Especially if there's something that maybe has ONE well known weakness that you can be prepared for or replace with a better aftermarket part.

Main interest is any pickup or SUV that has back seats that allows me to sleep in the back (i.e. inside a topper for the pickup).
]]>General Vehicle ModificationsRachmaninoffhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189786-What-are-some-of-the-most-reliable-old-vehiclessolar panel hook-up to side of Jeephttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189763-solar-panel-hook-up-to-side-of-Jeep?goto=newpost
Fri, 02 Feb 2018 22:25:56 GMTHave a Jeep Commander with a second battery installed. Getting ready to add solar panels for recharging the second battery. While at a camp site, I'd like the capacity to throw up the panels.(weather on the roof or against a tree). So, I'm looking for how to connect the power cord to the charge controller(in back cargo area). Would like to make that connection at the side of the Jeep.http://forum.expeditionportal.com/images/attach/jpg.gif Looking for a connector. not just a port. Any suggestions ?

]]>General Vehicle ModificationsGotoworkhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189763-solar-panel-hook-up-to-side-of-JeepHub Rings / New Wheelshttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189688-Hub-Rings-New-Wheels?goto=newpost
Wed, 31 Jan 2018 06:05:32 GMTWhat are peoples experience with these things?
The wheels I want have a larger bore than my hubs.
Need to go from 108 to 87
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/gor-108-8700/overview/
Would these be okay for off road use?What are peoples experience with these things?

Would these be okay for off road use?
]]>General Vehicle ModificationsKYChttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189688-Hub-Rings-New-WheelsTrue Trac vs Open Diffhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189663-True-Trac-vs-Open-Diff?goto=newpost
Tue, 30 Jan 2018 18:09:32 GMTRead many threads on lockers vs lsd. So this isn't a question regarding what is better.

I'm wondering if there is any reason to choose an open diff vs installing a true trac?

The true trac is the only option I am considering. I'm not considering any other "LSD" units.

Does a true trac suffer from "randomly engaging" on tight slippery turns? or are these instances over-stated?

My rig sees highway and light off road. I've never been stuck due to traction issues, but would like the option get on some less maintained roads.

I do not rock crawl at all. I'm worried about the occasional stream crossing, mud, wet sand and maybe some slick rocks.

This would be installed on a 2wd van.

So simply put, I want to know is there are any negatives with the true trac vs open diff. Is true trac better than an open diff 100% of the time in a 2wd RWD vehicle?
]]>General Vehicle ModificationsKYChttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189663-True-Trac-vs-Open-DiffDodge 3/4t tires-Toyo M55 or BFG KO2http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189662-Dodge-3-4t-tires-Toyo-M55-or-BFG-KO2?goto=newpost
Tue, 30 Jan 2018 17:49:55 GMTI’ve purchased a 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 crew cab 4x4 Gasser engine with a flatbed FWC Hawk popup (from Durango aka Steve). It has the stock tires. I drive paved roads to get to everywhere and then dirt, gravel and deep sand roads. Mud if I have to. Live in a snow area so driving through snow is important. I air down when necessary to maintain traction and smoother ride.
.

I have used BFG AllTerrians for years and have the KO2 on the Toyota 4 Runner and have been pleased. A tech guru friend is pushing hard for me to put the Toyo M55 tires on the Dodge. In my research I noted that these Toyo will be a firmer ride and produce road noise at 15 – 35 mph. I can agree with him that they are a bullet proof tire for dirt road usage and will reduce flats. Sounds good for the Alaskan highway gravel road travels. Tire size is LT265/70 R17 E rated.
.

So question is, only comparing the Toyo M55 and BFG KO2 on heavy full size truck with camper, who has experience with these two and your opinions overall. Take a leap and make my friend happy who has analyzed them to death or stay with what I know with the BFG. Thanks.
.
This is worthless without a image. From Steve on his White rim trip. Engine is a gasser model.

I like both kits but the MANN is a pretty neat system and looks well made. I could most likely use a different filter on it as the filters than come with are 3-5 micron. I think I prefer 30 micron before feed fuel pump to main filter. I feel that a 3-5 micron (checking on if they have a 30 micron or I can fit another brand 30 micron) would fill up quickly as a pre-filter. Might be better as a secondary. Both will have water sensors. Fuel manager, I'd go with a flashlube sensor.

Anyone using these?

Here's one in a touareg.

If anyone has some good advice I would appreciate it.

Thanks in Advance
]]>General Vehicle ModificationsAlfissimohttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189635-Diesel-Pre-filtration-systems-Touareg-TDI-2010DIY Automatic Tire Inflatorhttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189623-DIY-Automatic-Tire-Inflator?goto=newpost
Mon, 29 Jan 2018 04:04:44 GMTWhen most of us leave the pavement we air down a little to make the ride more comfortable and gain traction. But I hate to air back up when the pavement returns because it always seems to be muddy, cold, or dark and sitting next to the tires while they inflate lacks entertainment value. After...When most of us leave the pavement we air down a little to make the ride more comfortable and gain traction. But I hate to air back up when the pavement returns because it always seems to be muddy, cold, or dark and sitting next to the tires while they inflate lacks entertainment value. After searching the internet for a solution and not liking the options, I decided to make my own automatic tire inflator using an in-line regulator for air tools.

Thought I would share what I came up with so that I never have to sit next to my tires in the rain again!

If you like this idea and want to make your own, I put together a parts list at: How to make a automatic tire inflator. I've tested this setup on several trips and it works great... I can now relax inside the cabin and listening for the pump to shut off.

Couple this with an on-board air system and you'd really have something to write home about.
]]>General Vehicle Modificationslgrthttp://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189623-DIY-Automatic-Tire-InflatorAnyone tried RAM Tough Track?http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/189614-Anyone-tried-RAM-Tough-Track?goto=newpost
Sun, 28 Jan 2018 21:44:40 GMTTrying to find a sturdy mount for my cell phone and came across this RAM tough track stuff. RAM bills it as suitable for pretty much any vehicle. It appears the extruded aluminum version gets a lot of play in the marine market. While I'm loathe to drill into my dashboard, it does look like a pretty sound way to mount my phone and tablet together. Already have the hardware for hanging my tablet from a previous application, so I'm more than half way there on the investment. It's just drilling those holes... So, does anyone have any experience good or bad before I fire up old sparky?

My DECKED system came with the Core Trax adjustable load tracks but I decided against permanently mounting them to the flooring since I slide things around back there a lot and the tracks would stick up enough to get in the way. I wanted to mount them on the side of the bed, but I didn't want to drill through the sidewall.

I have a '99 Jeep Cherokee with a full length ARB roof basket and am trying to decide on how to mount my spade, clay pick, and axe. I've acquired a Carter T-handle spade and a clay pick with the steel collar a la Camel Trophy as well as the Land Rover mounts for them. I was thinking of mounting them to the hood and just wanted some thoughts. I'm trying to avoid mounting all of them to the roof basket simply because the plans that I have for the basket and its setup limit my options. And carrying them inside is not an option either.

The mounts are just riveted through the sheet metal and I'd, obviously, use backing plates to do so. I might even swap out the rivets for actualy threaded fasteners and nuts. the only thing that's given me pause is the potential safety issue with having heavy, metal (and sharp-ish) implements on the hood in the event of a collision. Obviously they would not be on the hood on a daily basis but they would be mounted for trips.